Lemony Brussels Sprouts Pizza

The plan was to share this lemony green pizza with you guys for St. Patrick’s Day last week but for whatever reason I just could not get my act together. I think between pet sitting our neighbor’s puppy and my mom coming to visit, I was a little overwhelmed.

This is actually the first time I’ve seen my mom in almost two years and also the first time she’s been out to California since we’ve moved here so it was kind of a big deal for me. We’ve had a great time together so far; I took her wine tasting on Saturday then yesterday we braved the rain to do a little sightseeing in San Francisco. Today is her last day here and I’m hoping to show her some of the giant redwoods at some point, if the rain lets up long enough.

Speaking of rain, did you guys know that yesterday was the first day of spring? All of the trees are turning green with their fresh leaves which feels so nice after a barren and dark winter!

I suppose it would feel more appropriate to be posting something with asparagus considering the change in seasons but brussels sprouts have been popping up at the market here so we’re going to roll with that instead. Besides, don’t tell anyone but I like brussels sprouts a lot better than asparagus. I mean, I like the flavor of asparagus (especially in this soup) but when it comes to texture, brussels take the cake for me.

The craving for this pizza randomly hit me when I was trying to figure out what to do with a bushel of organic brussels sprouts that I found on sale a few weeks ago. I decided to experiment with what I already had on hand: fresh garlic, olive oil, red onion, and lemon on top of whole wheat pizza dough.

The olive oil gets infused with the fresh garlic which is used to cook the onion and lightly coat the brussels sprouts so that they’re still somewhat crisp. After that we squeeze in a little fresh lemon juice and zest, spread everything on top of whole wheat pizza dough and then top it with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

I know it sounds like a strange combo but trust me, it works. Plus it comes together in less than 30 minutes which makes it easy enough for a weeknight meal. It’s light for a pizza yet satisfying enough that it won’t leave you feeling hungry. I like to serve it with a side salad and a glass of wine. That’s my idea of a perfect meal. ;)

Preheat the oven to 425°F and lay out a large sheet of parchment paper. If you're using store bought pizza dough, check the instructions as it may need to rest at room temperature while you prepare the topping.

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook for about 3 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant. Toss the sliced brussels sprouts into the skillet and stir together. Allow to cook for 2 more minutes then squeeze in the lemon juice and zest. Stir to combine.

Lightly flour the parchment paper then roll the pizza dough out into large rectangle. Top pizza dough with the oil and vegetables in the skillet then sprinkle cheese on top. Carefully transfer the parchment paper to the oven and bake for 12 minutes, until light golden brown on top. Slice and serve warm.

I like brussels sprouts a lot better than asparagus too. Like, a lot better. I’m glad you’re able to spend time with your mama–enjoy it, and my fingers are crossed that it’s not too rainy today!

Thanks girly! It was a little rainy but we still had a fun time. :)

Sounds like you’ve had a great time with your mom and I hope you got to show her those giant redwoods! It did rain a lot yesterday, didn’t it?
I’ve been buying brussels sprouts like crazy lately, and have never used them as a pizza topping yet. I need to make that happen — this looks just delicious!

It sounds like you are having such fun with your mom! I hope you guys have great day today!! And I’d be allll over this pizza. I love using brussels on pizza and this combo sounds fantastic!

Thanks Ashley! xo

Oh my gosh, my heart hurts for you hearing it’s been almost two years since you’ve seen your mom. Was the last time at your wedding? I’m glad she came out for a visit and you guys sound like you’re doing a ton of fun stuff. My mom and I work together so I see her almost every day, but it’s definitely fun to get out of the office and do other stuff together, too.

This pizza looks super delicious. Pizza, salad, and wine is one of my favorite meals ever! I’m so sad that I need to give GF and DF a try for at least three months per doctor’s request. Unfortunately I won’t be able to make this one. >:( Though, you know I want to!

THIS pizza! UGH, it has spring freshness and cheesy goodness written all over it – just my kind of pie! Bring on them brussels!

Thanks lady! It was so good to see her! :)

This may be the 18-year old in me, but I can’t imagine not seeing my mom for 2 years! You deserve to take your time :) This pizza is definitely worth the wait! I love the lemon and brussels sprouts, super unusual, but nonetheless looks absolutely delish :) Pinning!

Thanks Medha! :)

I’ve always wanted to make pizza at home! My roommate in DC used to, and it seemed time consuming, but this recipe seems really simple. I have a big bag of brussels I need to use up…may add this to the meal plan!

Homemade pizza is the best! You need to get on it! ;)

Aww man – 2 years?!? That’d definitely be a tough one, and I’m glad to hear that you’re soaking up all the time with your momma. And I almost forgot it was the first day of spring a few days ago. I love that the days are getting longer and warmer, buuuuuuuut then it snowed ALL day yesterday so…. :lol:

Yah, that’s so great you got to see your mom! We don’t live near any of our family so I know how nice it is to see them when you get the chance! And, I’m with you on liking Brussels sprouts more than asparagus, there is something so delicious about it.This pizza looks and sounds amazing!!

So fun to have your mom with you… how did she like SF? The Redwoods.. oh, I hope she got to see them. Magnificent and grand. I love visiting them so much and hope to see them again soon. We saw them in N. Cal.. not quite the largest of CA, but still unbelievable!! The farm still has BS too!! I just ate some a few days ago and they were so tasty! So, I’m happy about your BS post! Purple onions are my favorite onion, so I’m all about this pizza! Thank you for this, Sarah!